Canada

Funding gives a $3-million boost to 4-H Canada

OTTAWA – A $3-million investment into the development and delivery of innovative 4-H programs and initiatives nationwide has been made to 4-H Canada.

The announcement was delivered by federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau to 70 4-H youth during the 47th annual 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress on Parliament Hill May 2.

The funding which will be delivered over three years through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership AgriCompetitiveness Program reaffirms the long-standing partnership between 4-H Canada and the Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food aimed at building positive youth development in agriculture and agri-food.

“This funding commitment will ensure 4-H members are empowered to develop relevant skills and knowledge while exploring career paths in the areas important to their generation: agriculture, food security, science, technology, environmental sustainability, healthy living, communications and community engagement,” said David Hovell, Chair, 4-H Canada.

The AgriCompetitiveness Program supports sector-led initiatives which advance farm business management, farm safety information and tools, identify best practices and build the capacity of the sector.

It will, with the help of stakeholders and industry partners, provide rural and agricultural community youth with access to training and mentorship opportunities within the industry and its related sectors, while also growing their leadership skills and practical knowledge through internships, hands-on learning activities, exchanges and conferences.

“4-H Canada helps prepare generations of leaders, including girls, to take leadership positions in the agriculture sector and our government is committed to support this important work,” said Bibeau. “Young farmers across Canada must have a public voice and play an active role in shaping the future of our agriculture industry to ensure our rural communities continue to thrive and that all Canadians have access to healthy food.”

Established in 1913, 4-H is in more than 70 countries and is one of the world’s largest youth organization. 4-H Canada alone has approximately 25,000 members and 7,700 volunteers nation-wide and continues to enjoy healthy growth including the addition of 114 new clubs across Canada in 2018 alone.

The funding will also be used to develop new outreach tools and deliver grassroots programming with its provincial partner organizations by helping youth to “Learn To Do By Doing” in a safe, fun and inclusive environment.